1978 BMW 520 vs. 2004 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2004 Opel Vectra is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 520 (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2004 Opel Vectra. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 520 weights approximately 147 kg more than 2004 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 BMW 520 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Opel Vectra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, both vehicles can yield 280 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2004 Opel Vectra has automatic transmission and 1978 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1978 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 520 | 2004 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 520 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1951 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1523 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
